The Le Meridien New Orleans offers guests an option to be close to area businesses and high rise towers, the cruise port, and the French Quarter in a polished, business hotel.
Location
Closer to the convention center than Bourbon Street, Le Meridien New Orleans is well-positioned (with parking available) for the convention visitor that prefers daiquiris in the French Quarter to vendor-sponsored mixers.
Address: 333 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: +1 504-525-9444
Learn more about the Marriott Bonvoy Program this hotel is a part of.
Lobby
Reception awaits guests as they walk through the front entrance. Bell staff attends to luggage while valet looks after your car if desired, self-parking is available.
A small socializing area provides a place for guests to await transportation or meet visitors to the hotel. Leading from the lobby to seating for a bar and restaurant, the space extends further throughout the main floor.
Suite
At the time, I held Marriott Bonvoy Titanium status and was automatically upgraded to a suite. The particular suite I was given was divided in two hallways; one leading to the master bathroom and bedroom, the other to the living room, and guest restroom.
In some ways, it’s the ideal split for families, whereby the two rooms are separated by space and doors to limit sound and distractions. However, it does make it a little harder to monitor activities because the separation is substantial.
Living Room
Equipped with a dining room table, a couch, and a few chairs, the living room has plenty of space to spread out. A large TV and mini-fridge is also in the living room.
A guest bathroom allows comfort for visitors but privacy from the master bathroom.
Bedroom
Down the opposite hall, the bedroom offers a polished, contemporary aesthetic. Plush pillows, comfortable linens, and well-placed, soft bedside lights make for a restful evening. A closet is available in the hallway leading to the bedroom.
Master Bathroom
The master bathroom was bright and spacious. Offset white subway tiles in the large glass shower added a subtle style in a clean tone. Polished, dark tone metal features added to the premium feel of the bathroom.
Excellent Malin & Goetz toiletries were available in single-use tubes as opposed to mass distribution models mounted in the shower. As part of Marriott’s commitment to environmental concerns, single-use containers will be phased out in the future.
Marriott Bonvoy’s Service and Benefits
Titanium or Ambassador Bonvoy elite members are treated to benefits like free breakfast, lounge/club access, late checkout, and the additional bonus points. Holding one of the Marriott Bonvoy credit cards that provide entry-level status or status acceleration also make those guests eligible for an upgrade to a suite or more advantageous room, much like the suite I received.
I enjoy trying the local options when breakfast is offered, in the case of Le Meridien New Orleans, it was a bayou take on an Eggs Benedict. Breakfast is served in the second-floor restaurant, LMNO.
For more information on the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, see this post.
Value
While rates understandably increase for Mardi Gras, business travelers will enjoy the sophistication of Le Meridien New Orleans and convenience of the convention center. Rates range from $200-350/nt (Mardi Grad excluded.) The property is a good value at $200, but much over $250 is a little pricey considering the market and product.
For Marriott Bonvoy members, prices start at 35,000/nt for a standard room. This provides a value of 0.57¢ to 1.0¢/point, slightly above or significantly above Suites and Lobbies valuation of 0.45¢/point. Given that 35,000 points are worth about $157, Suites & Lobbies recommend Bonvoy members pay with points for their stay. For those considering other Marriott properties in New Orleans, there are many options, but none that present a greater value for Bonvoy points.
The Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card could get you free nights at this exact hotel.
What do you think? Have you stayed at the Le Meridien New Orleans? How was your experience?
